As the UEFA Champions League clash between Chelsea and Benfica approaches, the stage is set for an intriguing matchup at Stamford Bridge. This match not only features two historically significant clubs but also serves as José Mourinho’s highly anticipated return to his former side, Chelsea, as the manager of Benfica.
Match Overview
Date: Tuesday, 30 September 2025
Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
Last Meeting: Chelsea 4-1 Benfica, June 2025 (FIFA Club World Cup)
This encounter is pivotal for Chelsea, who are grappling with a crisis of form, while Mourinho will look to capitalise on his former club’s struggles.
Team News
Chelsea
The Blues are currently in turmoil under manager Enzo Maresca, facing a crucial moment as key players are sidelined with injuries. Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill, and Wesley Fofana are major absentees, significantly affecting the squad’s depth. João Pedro and Moisés Caicedo are also under question marks, as both players are facing late fitness tests that will determine their availability for this clash.
On a brighter note, Trevoh Chalobah makes a return despite being suspended domestically, providing a defensive boost for the team.
Benfica
José Mourinho comes into this match with a relatively settled side, though he will be without long-term absentees Bruma and Alexander Bah. The Portuguese side will count on their star striker Vangelis Pavlidis, who has already netted seven goals this season, to lead their attack.
Recent Form
Chelsea
Chelsea’s recent performances have been alarming, with just one win in their last five matches. A string of disappointing results, including consecutive losses to Bayern Munich and Brighton, has thrown a spotlight on their defensive vulnerabilities. They are currently enduring a three-game losing streak in the Champions League, pressing the urgency for a turnaround against Benfica. Notably, Chelsea has had a strong home record in the group stage, remaining unbeaten in their last 11 home games.
Benfica
Conversely, Benfica is showing signs of improvement under Mourinho, emerging unbeaten in his three league matches leading up to this meeting. However, their European campaign started off poorly with a surprising 3-2 home defeat to Qarabag, raising concerns about their ability to compete on the continental stage. Benfica has historically struggled against English opponents, not recording a victory in their last eight encounters.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea Predicted XI
- Goalkeeper: Sanchez
- Defenders: Gusto, Chalobah, Badiashile, Cucurella
- Midfielders: Fernandez, Lavia
- Forwards: Estevao, Buonanotte, Garnacho, George
Benfica Predicted XI
- Goalkeeper: Trubin
- Defenders: Dedic, Otamendi, A. Silva, Dahl
- Midfielders: Barrenechea, Rios
- Forwards: Lukebakio, Sudakov, Schjelderup, Pavlidis
Tactical Approach
For Chelsea, the primary focus will be to shore up their defensive issues while finding a way to generate consistent attacking opportunities. The absence of key players makes this task even more daunting for Maresca, who will need to find a balance between tightening the backline and ensuring they provide sufficient support in attack.
Mourinho’s Benfica, on the other hand, can be expected to adopt a more pragmatic approach. He will likely set his side up defensively and look to exploit any gaps Chelsea may leave open. With Pavelidis spearheading the attack, Benfica will aim to capitalize on counter-attacks and utilize set-piece situations.
How to Watch
Fans eager to catch this intriguing fixture can tune into TNT Sports 1 in the UK, with coverage commencing at 7:30 pm BST.
Conclusion
As this highly anticipated match edges closer, the stakes are undeniably high for both Chelsea and Benfica. Chelsea is under pressure to turn their fortunes around, while José Mourinho will look to relish a chance to exact revenge on his former club. The clash promises to be a battle of tactics, resilience, and a test of mental strength for both sides.
With tensions riding high and a rich history between these two clubs, spectators can expect an electric atmosphere at Stamford Bridge. Whether Chelsea can rise to the occasion or Benfica can continue building momentum under Mourinho remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the world will be watching.
